Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the use of fine needles at specific points on the body to restore and maintain health in Eastern medicine. There is an understanding that energy (Chi) travels through the body in energy channels- meridians and imbalances result in illness. In Western medicine the understanding / explanation is that acupuncture stimulates a release of naturally occurring pain killers in the body (endorphins) to assist healing and pain relief. Acupuncture is used in this clinic as an adjunct to physiotherapy and as a pain relief modality. Sterile single use acupuncture needles are inserted into meridian points relevant to chronic and acute pain and can speed up the rate of healing. It is very effective for myofascial pain and fibromyalgia.

 

Dry Needling / Trigger Point Needling

Dry needling is a technique using acupuncture needles. The sterile needles are inserted into myofascial trigger points in the muscles to release spasm and reduce pain and tension. Myofascial trigger points are recognised local contraction points in the muscle with distinct centres and referral patterns (Travell & Simons) They are documented sources of pain and can continue the pain cycle unless deactivated. When the needle is inserted there is a reflex contraction in the trigger point with a secondary release of spasm. This treatment is used as an adjunct to physiotherapy and is done only after a thorough assessment.